3 best computer networking modems
A computer networking modem, often referred to simply as a "modem," is a crucial networking device that facilitates the exchange of data between a computer or local area network (LAN) and an internet service provider (ISP) or other external network. Modems are integral to connecting devices to the internet and enabling communication between them. Here are key aspects of computer networking modems:
Modem Functionality: The term "modem" is a portmanteau of "modulator" and "demodulator." It refers to a device that modulates digital data from a computer into analog signals for transmission over a communication channel (like a telephone line or cable) and demodulates incoming analog signals back into digital data that the computer can understand.
Types of Modems:
- DSL Modems: These modems are used for Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) internet connections, which operate over standard telephone lines.
- Cable Modems: Cable modems are designed for cable internet connections and use the same coaxial cables as cable TV services.
- Fiber Optic Modems: Fiber optic modems are used with fiber-optic internet connections, which offer high-speed and reliable internet access.
- Dial-Up Modems: Dial-up modems, though largely outdated, were used for connecting to the internet via regular telephone lines.
Connection Types:
- Wired Modems: These connect to the computer or network via Ethernet cables.
- Wireless Modems: Also known as wireless gateways, these combine the functionality of a modem and a router. They provide both wired and wireless connections to multiple devices.
Router Integration: Some modems include a built-in router, creating an all-in-one networking device often referred to as a "gateway." Gateways are common in many homes and small offices.
Data Transfer Speeds: Modems support various data transfer speeds, typically measured in megabits per second (Mbps) or gigabits per second (Gbps). Faster modems can handle higher internet speeds.
DOCSIS Compatibility: For cable modems, compatibility with the Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification (DOCSIS) standard is important.Different DOCSIS versions offer different data transfer rates and features.
ISP Compatibility: Modems must be compatible with the specific internet service provider (ISP) and the type of service they offer. ISPs often provide a list of approved modems for their services.
Security Features: Many modems come with basic security features, such as firewall capabilities, to protect your network from external threats.
Configuration: Modems typically have web-based interfaces that allow users to configure settings, monitor network activity, and troubleshoot issues.
Upgrades: Over time, modems may become outdated, limiting your internet speed and functionality. Upgrading to a newer modem can improve your internet experience.
Bridge Mode: Some users configure their modems in "bridge mode" to work with a separate router. This can provide more control over network settings and advanced features.
In summary, computer networking modems are essential devices that enable computers and networks to access the internet by translating digital data into signals that can be transmitted over various communication channels. The type of modem you need depends on your internet service, and choosing the right modem is critical for achieving optimal internet performance.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best computer networking modems on the marketProduct description
Introducing the first DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem in the SURFboard lineup. The SURFboard SB8200 is a DOCSIS 3.1 modem – the newest technology being offered by cable providers. It is capable of the fastest speeds available by cable Internet service providers, perfect for things like 4K Ultra-HD Video Streaming and Virtual Reality Gaming. Plus, it has 2 Gigabit Ethernet ports! The SB8200 is compatible with major US Cable providers like Comcast (Xfinity service by Comcast) Cox, and others. Today’s connected home demands speeds far more powerful than ever. Power your home network with the SB8200 and get the fastest speeds and most reliable connection to the Internet. Own yours today and stop paying rental fees.
- DOCSIS 3 1 Cable Modem best for cable internet speed plans up to 2 Gbps. Note, a 2nd IP address is required from your cable internet provider to reach 2 Gbps.
- 32 downstream x 8 upstream DOCSIS 3 0 bonded channels, 2 downstream x 2 upstream OFDM DOCSIS 3 1 channels
- Two 1-Gigabit Ethernet ports capable of link aggregation
- others Not compatible with ATT, Verizon, CenturyLink or other DSL or Fiber internet providers
- Cable internet service required Does not inlcude Wi-Fi and does not support cable digital voice service
User questions & answers
Question: | How is this model different than the arris surfboard sb |
Answer: | The sb6121 only has speeds of 172 Mbps download and up to 131 Mbps upload. This model has up to 343 Mbps download and 131 Mbps upload. |
Question: | Going with the cable modem option what’s the best router to pair this with for spectrum |
Answer: | It depends on your needs. Needs are based on the number of devices connected and the size of area you are trying to cover. I would highly recommend a mesh network unless your home is 1200sqft or smaller. A centrally located router could cover that. The biggest problem is getting the 5ghz frequency to reach throughout the home. The 5ghz gives you speeds over 30mbps on wireless devices. 5ghz will reach roughly 40ft in all directions from your access point (ap). A mesh system gives you multiple ap and thus more area covered by the 5ghz. |
Question: | How many devices can connect at once? Is that that the 8x refers to |
Answer: | The 8x doesn't refer to the number of devices you can connect to it. You only want to connect one device and that's your WiFi router. You wireless router determines how many devices can be connect based on the available number of ip addresses on the wireless device. The 8x refers to the speed of Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification (DOCSIS). Its informing you on the speed of DOCSIS 2.0 vs the newer DOCSIS 3.0. Ultimately your speed will be determined by how much you want to pay your internet provider. And you can determine how many devices you want to connect by the router you choose. |
Question: | Do I also have to buy a router for the modem? And to make sure it obviously speeds up internet connection right |
Answer: | If you only need to have one computer hooked up to the internet you do not need a router. If you want to hook up more than one computer or if you want a wireless network, you will need to buy the appropriate router. My internet speed went from 20mb to 100mb(the speed I pay extra for). TWC has also stopped charging me $8.00 a month for the use of their inadequate equipment. |
Product features
Harness the power of DOCSIS 3.1 with the SURFboard SB8200 Cable Modem
Compatible with major U.S. cable internet providers: The SURFboard SB8200 is compatible with major U.S. cable internet providers including Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity and others. It's approved for cable internet speed plans up to 2 Gbps. Check your cable ISP website to confirm compatibility. (Note, a 2nd IP address may be required by your cable internet provider to achieve 2 Gbps speeds.)
The newest, fastest technology available
DOCSIS 3.1 is the newest technology available from cable internet providers that enables fast, efficient internet speeds.
Two 1-Gigabti Ethernet Ports
Two 1-Gigabit Ethernet ports capable of providing speeds up to 2 Gbps. (Note, a 2nd IP address may be required by your cable internet provider to achieve 2 Gbps speeds.)
Quick & easy setup
With a few simple cable connections and a quick visit to your ISPs self-activation portal, your network will be up and running in no time.
1. Connect the cables: coaxial, power, Ethernet
2. Contact your ISP (via web portal) to activate
3. Connect to a Wi-Fi router to setup your devices
Product description
The ARRIS SURFboard S33 is a DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem that delivers the fastest speeds and the latest technology. With a 2.5 Gigabit and a 1 Gigabit Ethernet port, the S33 enables a multi-gig experience for things like online gaming, 4K video streaming and more. It’s best for cable internet speed plans up to 2.5 Gbps and setup is simple with an easy-to-use app. It's compatible with any Wi-Fi router and saves you money on monthly rental fees. Upgrade your home network with an ARRIS SURFboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem.
- MULTI-GIG NETWORKING: The SURFboard S33 features a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port plus an additional 1 Gbps Ethernet port for a 2nd network
- DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem approved for cable internet speed plans up to 2.5 Gbps
- 32 downstream x 8 upstream DOCSIS 3.0 bonded channels, 2 downstream x 2 upstream OFDM DOCSIS 3 1 channels
- Connects to any existing Wi-Fi router for blazing-fast internet.
- Compatible with major U.S. Cable Internet Providers including Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity & others.
- Cable internet service required. Does not include Wi-Fi and does not support cable digital voice service.
- Stop renting your modem and save on monthly modem rental fees!
User questions & answers
Question: | Will this support xfinity extreme 1200mbps ? it's not on the supported device list |
Answer: | The Arris S33 is a DOCIS 3.1 capable device 32 x 8 rated for speeds up to 2.5 Gb. While the modem is indeed on Xfinity supported device list (check detailed discussions on dslreports.com), what matters is your router. Ensure you have a router capable of 1+Gb speeds. |
Question: | Is there a way to mount this device to a wall |
Answer: | We recommend placing the device on a tabletop in an open space to avoid any interference |
Question: | Is this modem compatible with suddenlink |
Answer: | It will work at the lower speeds since it is capable of up to 2.5Gb but runs just fine as low as 100mbps/5mbps (down/up) with 32x8 channels. Suddenlink allows ARRIS SB6190 and the S33 is a superior upgrade. |
Question: | Can you use both ethernet ports at the exact same time |
Answer: | Update...... I have picked mine up from BestBuy and YES you can use both Ports at the same time. I have the 2.5 to my PC and the other port to my Asus Ax11000 router. Hope this helps. |
Product features
Multi-Gigabit Download Speeds
Your multi-Gigabit home network will be ready with the SURFboard S33. A DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem. With a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port plus an additional 1 Gbps Ethernet port it's capable of combined download speeds up to 3.5 Gbps. The S33 is the fastest modem in the SURFboard lineup delivering the fastest speeds and the latest technology without the premium rental cost.
Future-Proof Your Home Network
DOCSIS 3.1 technology enables multi-gigabit networking. Future-proof your home network with the S33 DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem.
2.5 Gbps and 1 Gbps Ethernet Ports
The S33 has two Ethernet ports: 2.5 Gbps plus a 1 Gbps capable of providing combined download speeds up to 3.5 Gbps. (Note, a 2nd IP address may be required by your cable internet provider to achieve 3.5 Gbps speeds.)
Save Money on Monthly Modem Rental Fees
When you purchase your modem, not only are you powering your home network with the latest technology, you can save money on modem rental fees. Own your modem and start saving today!
Product description
The Net gear CM1000-1AZNAS ultra-high speed Cable Modem provides a connection to high-speed cable Internet with speeds up to 6 Gbps. It is the industry's first DOCSIS 3.1 cable labs Certified cable modem, 10x faster than DOCSIS 3.0. Working with both DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1 cable Internet service providers, it is the ultra-high speed Cable Modem ready for today's service plans and future upgrades. Enjoy Ultra HD video streaming over IP with 2x2 OFDM or 32x8 channel bonding giving you faster download speeds—even during peak hours. Save up to 120 a year by eliminating Internet service provider rental fees. Ideal for an Internet service plan 300Mbps and above. Certified with Comcast XFINITY, Cox and Mediacom. Please check your cable Internet service provider web site for data speed tier compatibility and to ensure it provides DOCSIS 3.1 service, otherwise this modem will only work as a DOCSIS 3.0 modem - Microsoft Windows 7, 8, 10, Vista, XP, 2000, Mac OS, or other operating systems running a TCP/IP network - Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.0, Firefox 2.0Safari 1.4, or Google Chrome 11.0 browsers or higher.
- Compatible with all major cable internet providers: Including certification by Xfinity by Comcast, COX, and Spectrum. Not compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH and any bundled voice service.
- Save monthly rental fees: Model CM1000 replaces your cable modem saving you up to dollar 168/year in equipment rental fees.
- Built for ultimate speed: Best for cable provider plans up to 1 gigabit speed.
- Works with any Wi-Fi router: Connect any Wi-Fi router to this modem's Ethernet port to support all your wireless devices.
- Ethernet connections: 1 Gigabit Ethernet port connects to your computer or separate Wi-Fi router.
User questions & answers
Question: | Why does it say 4x ethernet ports in your description where there is only one |
Answer: | Because Amazon hasn't corrected their product subscription. I submitted one two weeks ago and has yet to be done. If you need more than 1 ethernet port, then this one is not for you. This has only (1) 2.5 Multi-Gig port. |
Question: | Does netgear cm500-1aznas work with tds provider |
Answer: | Yes. But you need to call the TDS customer service and provide your CMAC or SN to register your device. These numbers are on the box and the unit |
Question: | Can you use a phone to ethernet splitter for voice to work |
Answer: | I have never heard of a phone to internet splitter, at least not expressed in those terms. However, for VOIP (which means Voice Over Internet Protocall), you must have at least one phone jack in a modem, or a modem-router combination. Some modems have two such jacks, which could provide two different "lines." Most importantly, you must have your internet service provider's PERMISSION to install and use such a modem, or modem-router combination! My own ISP (Wow, aka Wowway.com) REFUSED to give such permission because that would cut into their profits, since they would no longer receive a monthly FEE to RENT their age-old junk, much of which are at least five years old, which is like a millenia in this day of super-fast-paced electronic offerings. I had to send back every VOIP-capable modem I bought from Amazon and other places because my ISP REFUSED to enable them to work with their so-called service(s). Talk about anti-competitive business practices ... U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC), are you paying any attention? |
Question: | I understand that this modem says it will only work with xfinity. but has anyone tried this with spectrum? (aka time warner cable |
Answer: | Hello. I am writing this Dec 2, 2020 and just activated this modem 2 days ago with Spectrum. It is not on the list of approved modems, but oddly enough the CM400 is. I just told the tech support who activated it that it was compatible and it's worked fine with no problems. I went from 100-120 mbs on my 100 mb plan to 250 to 450 mbs, still on the 100 mb plan. This modem is not on the list of approved models but it seems to work fine so far without periodic latency/drops like the Arris model from Spectrum had. |
Product features
Why Buy Your Own Modem?
Save up to 168 Dollars/year
Eliminates monthly rental fees that can amount to 168 dollars or more per year.
No WiFi limits
You’re free to choose & connect the best router for your home’s WiFi needs.
Compatibility
Swap modems. Not problems. CM1000 is compatible with all major cable providers including Xfinity by Comcast, Spectrum, and COX. *
*Not compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirectTV, DISH and any bundled voice services.
Built for Extreme Speed
Supports cable internet plans with speeds up to 1Gbps ensuring ultra-reliable internet speed for 4K HD streaming, multi-player gaming and more.
Works with Any Wi-Fi Router
Plug the modem into the router that best meets your wireless needs and start streaming.
Easy 5 Minute Setup
Step 1: Plug your coax cable into the modem.
Step 2: Activate by either
(a) connect an Ethernet cable to your computer and follow the on-screen setup, or
(b) call your cable provider to activate over the phone.
Step 3: Plug an ethernet cable between the modem and your Wi-Fi router.
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